Indo-Pacific: Red Sea south to Natal, South Africa (Ref. 4392) and east to the Tuamoto Islands, north to the Ryukyu Islands, south to Lord Howe and the Austral islands. Distribution includes St. Brandon's Shoals and Gulf of Tadjoura (Ref. 33410).

Biology
Glossary
(e.g. epibenthic)

Occurs in seaward reefs among coral branches. Also in clear coastal waters, dense coral habitats on shallow reef crest or slopes to depth of about 20 m. Usually occurs in small loose groups. A shy species, usually swimming amongst the protection of coral branches (Ref. 48636). Feeds mainly on small crustaceans (Ref. 1602). Secretive (Ref. 37816).